I’m considering formal training or certification programs to sharpen my skills and possibly expand into managing additional properties.For those of you with more experience, which property management organizations or certifications would you recommend?

Has dealing with this organization been a good experience? 

.-  Pro's:  Additional functionalities, such as tracking maintenance, automated bookkeeping, screening reports, etc. 

Once you have a shortlist, sign up for an account with each one and test them extensively to see how they function.

My own realtor said that 2020 was the most lucrative year of her career and that nearly all the people buying houses in Waco are people who are fleeing California, New York, and Oregon, moving to Texas in hopes of living in a free and functional society again.

So he may consider this most of the basic functions of PM without actually being a PM (and thus not subject to regulation). 

I have no need for the rent collection or tenant screening as this is a function my property manager does for me.

But current search functions or magnifying glass is inefficient.  

It was a 1-bedroom apartment with a weird living room space that didn't feel functional. 

It all depends on the scope of work and your available time to put towards organizing and finding the right contractors.